Virginia Legionnaire is Recruiter of the Year

The three-time American Legion National Recruiter of the Year became a four-time winner during the 94th National Convention in Indianapolis. Carr, a member of the Department of Virginia, brought 546 new members into The American Legion this year.

Carr quickly shifted praise to those watching him receive his award. "To all of you in The American Legion, it’s because of the things that The American Legion stands for, I was proud to recruit people for it," Carr said. "There is no magic bullet (for recruiting). Just ask."

Carr’s award was one of many given out during the national convention, including several for membership achievements.

The O.L. Bodenhamer Trophy, presented to the department that led The American Legion in traditional membership for the Flag Day report on June 14 – Department of Florida

All Target Dates Award, presented to departments that meet every target date during the membership year – Department of the Philippines

Department Commander of the Year Award – Joseph Carsley, Department of the Philippines.

Department commanders who were the top fundraisers in their respective category: David M. Hicks, Department of Illinois; Larry J. Abshire, Department of Louisiana; Melvin G. Smullen, Department of Maryland; George Cyboron, Department of Nebraska; Kerrie G. Gill Sr., Department of Pennsylvania; and Francis J. Killay, Department of Vermont

Department commanders who exceeded the National Emergency Fund challenge by per capita: Phil Youngblood, Department of Georgia; Jeanette Rae, Department of Nevada; W. Michael Bowen, Department of New York

Departments that met their per capita challenge of 100 percent: Alabama, Arkansas and Mississippi